New therapy approved for control of canine atopic dermatitis

Veterinarians now have a safe and effective non-steroidal option for long-term control of canine atopic dermatitis. Atopica, which contains the active ingredient cyclosporine A (CsA), has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Novartis Animal Health. Atopica is proven effective in controlling the clinical signs of canine atopic dermatitis. Its safety and efficacy are due to the targeted mode of action on the key cells and mechanisms involved in the allergic reaction, says G.C. Ritchie, DVM, marketing manager at Novartis Animal Health US, Inc. The primary mechanism of action for Atopica is inhibiting cytokine gene expression in T lymphocyte cells. This blocks production and secretion of interleukin-2, a cytokine responsible for initiating inflammation. Clinical efficacy of Atopica was investigated in multiple studies. In a dose characterization study, Atopica demonstrated efficacy in control of atopic dermatitis lesions and pruritus. After six weeks of daily treatment with Atopica at 5 mg/kg, itching was reduced on average by 45 percent and skin lesions by 67 percent. Atopica is available in soft gelatin capsules containing 10, 25, 50 or 100 mg CsA. Capsules are packaged 15 per pack. Atopica is indicated for the control of atopic dermatitis in dogs weighing at least 4 pounds.

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